Why A Raffia Bag Is The New City Staple

When we think of a raffia bag, far-flung summer vacations immediately spring to mind – and while there’s no better accessory to finish a poolside outfit, this season’s raffia designs are proof that they can complement sleek city looks, too. Not convinced? Lié Studio is here to change your mind. Exclusive to NET-A-PORTER, the Copenhagen-based brand’s latest bag is crafted from raffia in a structured shape, detailed with stripes and sleek adjustable leather straps.

“Our raffia bag is quite special to us. Handwoven in Madagascar, it’s the result of slow, thoughtful craft, giving every piece its own unique story,” Lié Studio founders Amalie and Cecilie Moosgaard tell me over email. “To us, this isn’t just a bag for the upcoming summer, but one you’ll find yourself reaching for year after year.” Ideal for the beach or your morning commute, it has ample space to fit your essentials (think towel and sunscreen or a laptop and cosmetics case) and works perfectly with breezy summer dresses or denim. “It’s the kind of piece that carries effortlessly into fall, paired with jeans, a cashmere sweater and ballet flats, for an easy, throw-on look that feels a little Jane Birkin – carefree, timeless and always chic,” the pair add.

Elsewhere, Khaite’s ‘Billie’ bag is designed in an exaggerated bucket shape, offering an ultra-modern take on retro styles. Channel the brand’s sleek, uptown elegance by wearing yours with a linen suit or a drop-waist dress to the office or a networking event.

Raffia bags are also often a masterclass in exceptional craftsmanship and artisanal techniques. From tactical fringing and tassels to intricate embroidery, it’s these hand-finished details that make a piece feel particularly special. Take Zimmermann’s ‘Goldentime’ tote, for instance, which has been woven entirely by hand by artisans in Madagascar; or Isabel Marant’s ‘Tampa’ bag – another NET-A-PORTER exclusive – that’s traced with whipstitched leather and printed silk. Embrace the boho feel by wearing it with a romantic blouse and frayed denim shorts.

Testament to raffia’s enduring appeal, Tod’s has even updated its iconic ‘Timeless T’ tote in the material. This crocheted version features the same gold-tone hardware as the original and comes with a zipped leather pouch to save you rummaging around for your purse or keys. Elsewhere, Valentino Garavani’s ‘Viva Superstar’ features the brand’s iconic ‘VLOGO’ and has a generous, unstructured shape. Alternatively, for something you can easily wear to a dinner party or drinks reception, Jimmy Choo’s ‘Bon Bon’ bucket bag is detailed with glossy faux-pearls and a hoop handle you can loop over your wrist.

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